New William Welch Wines Revitalises Local History in Martinez
William Welch Wines, a new winery in downtown Martinez, highlights locally grown and custom-crafted wines on the historic Welch Ranch. Named after local pioneer William Welch and operated by Steve Welch, a direct descendant of Mexican settlers in California, the new tasting room strives to educate locals about Martinez and its pioneer roots.
PEJU Winery in Napa Valley
The iconic PEJU estate in Rutherford, the heart of the Napa Valley, is an ode to beauty, anchored by a whimsical 50-foot tower, immaculate gardens and a curated sculpture collection. Known for its warm hospitality and approachable exploration, the winery is also home to the award-winning PEJU Cabernet Franc, a wine full of elegance and grace with complex layers and structured tannins. The must-visit destination has unique tasting and pairing experiences for every palate.
Pinot Noir & Chardonnay Vineyards in Mendocino
Anderson Valley in Mendocino has close to 100 vineyards planted on 2,457 acres. Most of the grapes grown are planted in Burgundy, France with 69% planted to Pinot Noir and 21% to Chardonnay. Secondary grapes grown are those found in Alsace, France, and include Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris and Riesling.
Chardonnay in the Tri-Valley
Nestled in the heart of the Livermore Valley, Wente Vineyards began growing Chardonnay in 1908 and produced the first varietal bottled Chardonnay in 1936. The Wente Chardonnay Clone has parented 75% of all California Chardonnay, one of the state’s two most important grapes. Chardonnay producers also include Concannon Vineyard, McGrail Vineyards and Steven Kent Winery. The Tri-Valley, while small, has grown to encompass an incredible wine region.
Benevolent Neglect Wines in Downtown Napa
Napa's Benevolent Neglect's hand-crafted, minimal intervention wines are truly one-of-a-kind. Vineyards from Central to Northern California are sourced for their unique terroirs and never-before-seen quality like the limestone bedrock of Enz to experimental plantings at Alder Springs. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Downtown Napa with a tasting or glass of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel, Syrah and more.
Wine Pairings in Cambria
Located on the Central Coast, Cambria is known for its cool climates, vineyards and tasting rooms. Stolo Family Winery produces a variety of Sauvignon Blancs and Pinot Noirs while practising sustainable farming. Moonstone Cellars’ laid-back setting is perfect for a glass of Sauvignon Blanc. Cutruzzola Vineyards specialises in small-lot, handcrafted Pinot Noir wines that showcase the unique terroir of the area.
Expressive Grenache in Morgan Hill
Known as “The Valley of Heart’s Delight,” Morgan Hill is where walnuts and cherries grow next door to microchips and processors. There’s also Grenache, a warm and expressive wine that has a base of cherry, berry, white pepper spice and at times, even leather or cocoa powder. Visit Lightpost Winery, Vallée Vineyards and Alara Cellars to experience this varietal.
Experience SoCal in Pali Wine Co. Wines
Pali Wine Co. knows SoCal’s vibrant spirit. Savour sun-kissed San Diego in Tower 15’s Swell red wine. The Bordeaux-style red is a symphony of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Experience the dynamic pulse of Los Angeles in Blood Moon, a distinctive blend of Pinot Noir, Syrah, Gamay and Sangiovese. Taste the elegance and quiet luxury of Santa Barbara in Huntington Pinot Noir, a medium-bodied wine boasting a silky texture with refreshing acidity. Chardonnapple, in collaboration with Benny Boy Brewing, is a tribute to Anaheim’s burgeoning beer, cider, and wine scene resulting in a naturally bubbly wine that marries the refreshing acidity of apples with the floral, fruity undertones of Chardonnay.
Festivity Bubbles in Santa Barbara Wine Country
In Los Olivos, the Fess Parker Family Portfolio, founded by actor Fess Parker, is the shining star of the Santa Ynez Valley. Among the expansive hospitality portfolio, The Bubble Shack offers visitors a 90-minute tasting of bright and bubbly Fesstivity wines plus Blanc de Blancs, Brut Rosé, Blanc de Noirs, and Brut Cuvée. They also offer a 90-minute tasting of Rhône-varietal wines in the recently renovated Epiphany tasting garden.
Sip the Relaxed SLO CAL Life
SLO CAL offers the picturesque, blue coastline of the Pacific Northwest. Edna Valley boasts more than 20 wineries and the ideal Chardonnay growing conditions. In general, the cool climate is home to 300 wineries, breweries, and distilleries for travellers to get their fill not only of robust red wines but also coastal-influenced whites and light reds.
Rosé Wines in Carlsbad
Rosé wines, known for their fruity and welcoming characteristics, best represent the coastal playground of Carlsbad, making for the ultimate destination to unwind and enjoy an unforgettable escape. Experience Rosé wines at Carruth Cellars, Witch Creek Winery and Ember & Rye.
Welcoming Pinot Noir in Pebble Beach
When visiting Monterey Peninsula’s Pebble Beach, unwind with a glass of Pinot Noir from Lucia Vineyards. Crafted with fruit from the Pisoni, Soberanes, and Garys’ vineyards, the wine is a reference point for the Santa Lucia Highlands, and the favourite welcome pour to visitors at Stave Wine Cellar located at Pebble Beach Resorts.
Viognier Wines of Placer
Placer County is bold and adventurous, and home to Viognier, a dominant white varietal of the region dating back to the Gold Rush period. Have a glass or two at wineries such as Casque Wines, Lone Buffalo Vineyards, Dora Dain Wines, Dono dal Cielo and Smokin’ Barrel.
LOLA: California Wines for the Adventurous Soul
For those seeking an authentic and adventurous foray into the best of California wine country, discover LOLA Wines. Offering daily tastings in a charming 19th-century cottage in Calistoga, LOLA Wines pays tribute to the old-world tradition. The seasonal selection of small-batch, handcrafted wines are available to taste, in addition to their curated pairings of assorted conserves.
Experience Far Northern California with Burnsini Vineyards
When experiencing Far Northern California, victors must try the Burnsini Vineyards' Tehama Red Blend and El Toro Sangiovese. The Tehama Red Blend captures the essence of its namesake county with its warm, spicy, and subtly dusty red clay flavours. The El Toro Sangiovese gets its name from the neighbouring ranch's bulls. Tastings are available at the Cottonwood Vineyard Tasting Room and the Downtown Redding Tasting Room inside Enjoy the Store.
Celebrating Barbera Wine in Amador County
The most underrated and affordable hidden gem in Amador County is the Barbera wine. Known as a full-body, dry red wine, Barbera is earthy and robust in flavour and pairs well with varied cuisines. Celebrate National Barbera Day at the 10th Barbera Festival on 9 September 2023. Festival-goers can taste Barbera wines from over 40 wineries across California, and enjoy gourmet food from top chefs, live music, and local artists in a beautiful outdoor setting.